Ajaccio – Lille Preview

Last round happened what everybody knowing Ajaccio expected to happen, they lost away at Montpellier 2-0 without creating many difficulties for the winners.

In-spite of that, they kept it pretty tight at the back as all midfielders participated in the defensive phase. This is actually Ajaccio’s signature, favorite playing style, especially away from home or against powerful clubs, like Lille for example.

But midfielders’ constant preoccupation with defending implies neglecting one of the most important aspects in football, the attack…

In-fact last round against Montpellier, Ajaccio didn’t even had 1 shot on target… It will be very difficult for Ajaccio to save the season in this manner.

In comparison to last round hosts will be without central defender Tonucci who is suspended.

Lille’s game against Lyon last round was very balanced (finished 0-0). It was obvious Lille are not willing to take any risks and endanger their current position in the table (3rd place with 1 point above St Etienne). Patience is one of Lille’s major attributes. Also the fact that the offensive players are kind of slow contributes to that patience…

Lille sometimes exaggerate with long range attempts as they lack the power to surprise opponents and penetrate the penalty box. It happened last round against Lyon as well, when most of Lille’s efforts went way wide.

Central defender Basa should return after being injured last round, but fullback Souare will sit out suspended.

Neither side will be willing to take any chances. Ajaccio will once again concentrate many players in defense giving away few to no spaces, while Lille will rely on long range attempts.

The game should be pretty dull and if by any chance one side will open the score it will most probably end that way. Under 2 goals (with money back if just 2 goals are scored) at 2.19 is worth some low to medium stakes.